Rocha vs. Curiel II: Detailed Fight Preview, Analysis & Prediction for the Welterweight Rematch
A Second Chance at Glory: Rocha and Curiel Ready to Rumble Again in Palm Desert
After their first fight ended in a contentious draw, Alexis “Lex” Rocha and Raul “Cougar” Curiel are set to reignite their rivalry at the Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, California, on Saturday, January 16, 2026. With the NABF Welterweight Title up for grabs, both fighters are hungry to prove their dominance in this highly anticipated rematch. The outcome of Rocha vs. Curiel II holds significant implications for the welterweight division, potentially catapulting the winner into world title contention.
Fight Night Details: Your Guide to Rocha vs. Curiel II
- When is Rocha vs. Curiel II? Mark your calendars for Saturday, January 16, 2026!
- Where is Rocha vs. Curiel II taking place? The Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, California, will host this welterweight showdown.
- How to watch Rocha vs. Curiel II: Catch all the action live on DAZN. Streaming is available through the DAZN app and platform in the USA, the UK, and most countries worldwide. The DAZN broadcast is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM EST / 5:00 PM PST.
- Rocha vs. Curiel II Undercard: The undercard promises additional excitement, featuring a clash between Manuel Flores and Jorge Chavez, as well as a bout between John ‘Scrappy’ Ramirez and Byron Rojas.
Fighter Profiles: A Tale of Two Warriors
Alexis “Lex” Rocha: The Southpaw Stylist
- Nationality: United States
- Age: 28
- Height: 5’ 10” / 178 cm
- Reach: 70.1” / 178 cm
- Stance: Southpaw
- Record: 25-2-1 (16 KOs)
- Knockout Percentage: 64%
- Rounds Fought: 169
- Recent Form: Draw (MD vs. Raul Curiel), Win (UD vs. Santiago Dominguez), Win (TKO vs. Fredrick Lawson), Loss (KO vs. Giovani Santillan), Win (KO vs. Anthony Young)
- Strengths: Rocha’s southpaw stance poses a unique challenge for orthodox fighters. He’s an experienced competitor known for his adaptability, conditioning, and relentless work rate. His high ring IQ allows him to make crucial adjustments during the fight.
- Weaknesses: Rocha can sometimes be drawn into brawls, which can leave him defensively vulnerable.
Raul “Cougar” Curiel: The Undefeated Power Puncher
- Nationality: Mexico
- Age: 30
- Height: 5’ 8” / 173 cm
- Reach: 70.1” / 178 cm
- Stance: Orthodox
- Record: 16-0-1 (14 KOs)
- Knockout Percentage: 88%
- Rounds Fought: 88
- Recent Form: Win (KO vs. Victor Ezequiel Rodriguez), Draw (MD vs. Alexis Rocha), Win (TKO vs. Elias Diaz), Win (KO vs. Courtney Pennington), Win (KO vs. Brad Solomon)
- Strengths: Curiel boasts formidable power and aggression. His accuracy and counter-punching abilities make him a dangerous opponent.
- Weaknesses: Curiel has limited experience against top-level opposition. He can be drawn into a brawl, and his stamina could be tested if the fight goes into the later rounds.
Statistical Breakdown: Rocha vs. Curiel II by the Numbers
- Wins: Rocha (25) vs. Curiel (16)
- Losses: Rocha (2) vs. Curiel (0)
- Draws: Rocha (1) vs. Curiel (1)
- Knockouts: Rocha (16) vs. Curiel (14)
- KO Percentage: Rocha (64%) vs. Curiel (88%)
- Rounds Fought: Rocha (169) vs. Curiel (88)
- Height Advantage: Rocha (2 inches taller)
- Age Difference: Rocha (2 years younger)
- Stance: Rocha (Southpaw) vs. Curiel (Orthodox)
- Experience: Rocha (more fights, more rounds)
- Rankings: Rocha (WBC #15, The Ring #7) vs. Curiel (WBA #3, WBC #5, WBO #12, IBF #7, The Ring #8)
- Activity Check: Rocha last fought 1 year, 1 month, and 2 days ago, while Curiel last fought 6 months and 19 days ago.
Keys to Victory: Pathways to Winning
Alexis Rocha’s Route to Victory:
- Effectively utilize his southpaw stance to disrupt Curiel’s rhythm and create openings.
- Control the distance and pace of the fight, using his superior movement to his advantage.
- Capitalize on any potential stamina issues Curiel may exhibit in the later rounds.
- Avoid getting drawn into a brawl and stick to his boxing skills.
Raul Curiel’s Route to Victory:
- Employ his power and aggression to pressure Rocha from the opening bell.
- Land clean, impactful shots early to gain an advantage and potentially secure a knockout.
- Cut off the ring and corner Rocha to limit his movement and create opportunities for power punches.
- Be wary of Rocha’s counter-punching ability and avoid getting caught with unnecessary shots.
Betting Odds: Who’s the Favorite?
Raul Curiel enters the fight as the favorite with odds of 4/5 (-130), while Alexis Rocha is the underdog at 6/5 (+120). Remember to gamble responsibly.
Expert Prediction: The Final Verdict
This rematch is a classic clash of styles: the boxer versus the puncher. While Curiel possesses undeniable power, Rocha’s experience, southpaw stance, and ring IQ give him the edge. Expect Rocha to use his movement and jab to frustrate Curiel, ultimately winning a unanimous decision after a hard-fought battle.
Final Bell: The Stage is Set for a Welterweight War
The rematch between Alexis Rocha and Raul Curiel promises to be an explosive encounter. With the NABF Welterweight Title at stake and both fighters eager to prove their superiority, fans can expect a thrilling contest from start to finish. Who will emerge victorious?
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